Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Guwahati serves as a gateway to many breathtaking destinations in Assam and nearby states. Whether you're looking for scenic landscapes, wildlife, or cultural experiences, here are some of the best nearby places for day trips and short getaways.

1. Shillong – The Scotland of the East

 Distance: 100 km (2.5-3 hours by road)
 How to Reach: Drive via NH6 or take a shared taxi/bus from Guwahati

Why Visit?

• Picturesque hills, waterfalls, and a cool climate.
• Known for its vibrant cafes and colonial charm.

Top Attractions:

✅ Umiam Lake (Boating & scenic views)
✅ Elephant Falls (Stunning waterfalls)
✅ Shillong Peak (Panoramic city view)
✅ Police Bazaar (Shopping & street food)

2. Cherrapunji – The Wettest Place on Earth

 Distance: 150 km (4-5 hours by road)
 How to Reach: Drive or hire a taxi from Shillong

Why Visit?

• Home to lush green landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls.
• Famous for living root bridges and caves.

Top Attractions:

✅ Nohkalikai Falls (India’s tallest plunge waterfall)
✅ Mawsmai Caves (Exploration & adventure)
✅ Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Eco-wonder)

3. Kaziranga National Park – Home of the One-Horned Rhino

 Distance: 195 km (4-5 hours by road)
 How to Reach: Drive via NH37 or take a bus from Guwahati

Why Visit?

• UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for one-horned rhinoceroses.
• Perfect for jungle safaris and wildlife photography.

Top Attractions:

✅ Jeep Safari (Spot rhinos, elephants, and tigers)
✅ Elephant Safari (Close encounters with wildlife)
✅ Orchid & Biodiversity Park (Beautiful orchids and cultural exhibits)

4. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Mini Kaziranga

 Distance: 50 km (1.5-2 hours by road)
 How to Reach: Drive via Morigaon Road or hire a taxi from Guwahati

Why Visit?

• High density of one-horned rhinos in a compact area.
• Great for birdwatching and jungle safaris.

Top Attractions:

✅ Jeep Safari (Rhino & other wildlife spotting)
✅ Boating on the Brahmaputra (Scenic ride & birdwatching)

5. Hajo – A Multi-Religious Pilgrimage Site

 Distance: 30 km (1 hour by road)
 How to Reach: Drive via NH27 or take a local bus

Why Visit?

• A sacred site for Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists.

Top Attractions:

✅ Hayagriva Madhava Temple (Ancient Hindu-Buddhist temple)
✅ Powa Mecca (Islamic pilgrimage site)
✅ Kedareswar Temple (Dedicated to Lord Shiva)

6. Sualkuchi – The Silk Village of Assam

 Distance: 35 km (1 hour by road)
 How to Reach: Drive via Hajo Road or take a ferry

Why Visit?

• Famous for Assam silk weaving (Muga, Eri, and Pat silk).
• Perfect for shopping traditional Assamese garments.

Top Attractions:

✅ Handloom Workshops (See how Mekhela Chadors are made)
✅ Local Markets (Buy authentic Assamese silk)

7. Chandubi Lake – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers